Isle of Iona
The island of Iona is tiny in size but huge in terms of special charm, wildlife, beauty, global influence and fascinating history.
Known as the “cradle of Christianity”, Iona has an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity enhanced by shell-sand beaches fringed by intense blue-green seas. Accessed by a short ferry journey from the Ross of Mull, the main attraction is a visit to the Abbey. But Iona has many other exceptional qualities including an unspoiled natural environment where rare wildlife thrives.
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North End Beach Walk
Walking to the North End of Iona is worth the visit, experience the expansive views, white sands and aquamarine waters that inspired the Scottish Colourists.
Port Ban
Sheltered swimming beach on Iona, framed by granite cliffs and loved by families for picnicking and summer fun and sand made from crushed shells.
Dun I Walk
Walk from the pier to the top of Iona’s highest hill Dun I and back, allowing time to take in the view from the summit.
Argyll Hotel Restaurant
Open to non residents all day from 10am for morning coffee and homebaking. Hand crafted simple lunches and a delicious a la carte dinner menu.
The Nunnery
The perfect place to while away an hour or so within the walls of the often sunny, sheltered and peaceful cloister.
Hermit’s Cell
A secluded ring of stones in a sheltered glen rumoured to be where St Columba came to pray away from the monastic community.
St Columba’s Bay Walk
Best walked as a whole day adventure, there is much to see on the way to St Columba’s bay and plenty to explore once there.
St Ronan’s & Martyrs’ Bay
The most accessible beaches on Iona for those with children or a short time to visit. Close to amenities but with great views.
St Columba’s Bay
The most southern beach on Iona famed for the arrival of St Columba bring Christianity to Scotland and finding St Columbas Tears of polished serpentine.
Argyll Hotel
A peaceful stay is guaranteed at the beautiful and historic Argyll Hotel where we pride ourselves on our warm Hebridean welcome!
Late Availability
Dun I and the Well of Eternal Youth
Dun I provides a panoramic view with St Columba’s Bay and Jura to the South and the Treshnish Isles, Rhum and Skye to the North.
Reilig Odhrain
Sited on the Medieval street of the Dead, Reilig Odhrain is the burial place of early Scottish kings.
White Strand of the Monks & North End Beaches
Iona’s northern beaches inspired the Scottish Colourists with their pure white sands, aquamarine seas and stunning vistas of Mull, the Treshnish Isles and beyond.
St Columba Hotel
Offering stunning views over the Sound of Iona, we offer comfortable en-suite rooms and relaxing lounges. Our restaurant serves local meats and organic garden produce.
Iona Abbey
Founded by St Columba, the Iona Abbey is noted for its peaceful location, beautiful granite buildings , unique cloister carvings and Celtic crosses.
The Marble Quarry
Worked from medieval times until the early 20th Century. White marble streaked with yellow-green serpentine altar can be seen in Iona Abbey.